I get the worst chapped lips in the winter. What remedy will stop this once and for all?

Smooth and soft

Smooth and soft

The dermatologist says:

The dermatologist says:

"The thin skin on your mouth loses moisture faster than any other area--especially when it's cold. Your instinct may be to buff off the flakes, but don't: This can leave the skin raw and allow bacteria in. Instead, focus on hydration. By keeping the skin nourished and protected, it'll repair itself quickly and stay soft." If you're going to be outdoors for the day, swipe on a lip balm that contains SPF 30, since the delicate skin on your lips is especially vulnerable to UV rays. (Try Nivea A Kiss Of Protection Lip Care SPF 30, $2.99; drugstore.com.) And watch out for triggers that can aggravate dryness, such as acidic juices like orange and grapefruit, toothpaste that contains guaiazulene or sodium lauryl sulfate (it'll say so on the label), and fragranced lipsticks and glosses. "Avoid all these for a bit and your lips will heal much faster."

--Jennifer M. Segal, M.D., fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and consulting dermatologist for Simple Skincare